Two more wins for Palatine at Lake Zurich

Palatine's boys basketball team won twice on Monday in MLK tournament play at Lake Zurich to complete a 4-1 run, giving the Pirates their sixth win in their last seven games.

On Monday at Lake Zurich, Palatine first beat Streamwood 67-57, then handled Marian Central 78-40.

Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, Palatine and Niles North all finished the tournament at 4-1, but Lake Zurich won the tie-breaker and thus the tournament title on point differential after a 71-54 victory over Vernon Hills late Monday.

Against Streamwood, R.J. Smith led the way for Palatine with 15 points, while Chris Macahon had 13 and Justin Chaney 11 (with three 3s). Palatine led by 14 points at the half; the Sabres closed within 10 by outscoring the Pirates 14-7 in the fourth quarter.

Against Marian Central, Chaney led the way with a game-high 18 points, which included four 3s, and Macahon and Smith contributed 13 apiece.

Palatine's defense held Marian Central to 15 points in the first half and just 4 points in the fourth quarter.

Palatine improved to 15-6 and next plays on Saturday, when the Pirates host Mid-Suburban West leader Barrington.